If the filtering for one or more articles in the publication yields non-overlapping partitions that are unique for each subscription, metadata is cleaned up whenever the Merge Agent runs. This means that the partitioned snapshot expires more quickly. When using this option, you should consider allowing Subscribers to initiate snapshot generation and delivery. For more information about filtering options, see the "Setting 'partition options'" section of Snapshots for Merge Publications with Parameterized Filters.

Generate a schema snapshot for the publication. By default, a schema snapshot is generated when you complete the New Publication Wizard; you can also generate a schema snapshot from Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio.

To generate a schema snapshot

Connect to the Publisher in Management Studio, and then expand the server node.

Expand the Replication folder, and then expand the Publications folder.

Right-click the publication for which you want to create a snapshot, and then click View Snapshot Agent Status.

When the Snapshot Agent finishes generating the snapshot, a message will be displayed, such as "[100%] A snapshot of 17 article(s) was generated."

To allow Subscribers to initiate snapshot generation and delivery

On the Data Partitions page of the Publication Properties - <Publication> dialog box, select Automatically define a partition and generate a snapshot if needed when a new Subscriber tries to synchronize.